MISSION ACCOMPLISHED…
WITH one round to go, Filipinos Wesley So and Catherine Pereña, both assured to bring home honor and glory for the country after a successful campaign in Japfa Chess Festival 2008 being held at the Indonesian Sports Council Hall in Jakarta, Indonesia, over the weekend.
The 14-year-old So, whose local and international campaign is supported by NCFP president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr., NCFP secretary-general Abraham "Bambol" Tolentino Jr., Filway Marketings Inc. CEO/ President Hector "Chito" Tagaysay and businessman Reginald Tee, held into a draw with fellow grandmaster (GM) Indon ace Susanto Megaranto (2561) in their Game 4 match after 45 moves of a Sicilian Defense using the black pieces enough to win the one-on-one, six games Fide rated match despite losing his Game 5 after 28 moves of a Nimzovitch Defense, handling the white pieces late Saturday.
So who hails from Bacoor, Cavite, currently the world's youngest grandmaster, with an Elo rating of 2540, younger than GMs Parimarjan Negi of India and Fabiano Caruana of Italy and the United States (he has dual citizenship), is leading at 3.5-1.5 points against Indon GM Megaranto going to the six and final round.
It shall be recalled that GM Rogelio "Joey" Antonio Jr. bested GM Edhi Handoko of Indonesia, 3.5-2.5, in their on-one-one duel was also held in Jakarta (1998) ten years ago.
"We were roommates in many tournaments. Magaling maghanda sa kalaban si Wesley (So) at napakabait na bata pa na walang yabang sa sarili and I know he will go far. He deserves to be No.1. Ka teammate ko din siya sa Tagaytay Chess Team." said Antonio yesterday.
In the Womens Grandmaster Tournament, the Caloocan City-based Pereña obtain her first Woman International Master (WIM) norm after posting two consecutive victories to raise her total 4.5 points, requirement for WIM norm going to the final round.
"Mula sa NCFP, malugod nating binabati sina Wesley (So) at Catherine (Pereña) na nagbigay muli ng karangalan sa bansa matapos ang matagumpay na kampanya sa Indonesia Chess kahit may isang round pang nalalabi." said NCFP president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr., who already produced three grandmaster under his term---So, Darwin Laylo and Jayson Gonzales.
Pereña on the other hand, who hold an Elo rating of 2234 crushed WFM Thandar Aye Win (2291) of Myanmar after 48 moves of a Slav Defense and followed a 44 moves victory over WGM Jana Krivec (2362) of Slovenia in their King's Indian Defense clash, in round 8 and 9, in order to clinch her first WIM norm.
Individual Standings after round 9:
Woman Grandmaster Tournament, six player's double round-robin format, Rating Average: 2317, WGM Norm: 6.5 points while WIM Norm: 4.5 points
6.0 points---WGM Li Ruofan (2423, Singapore)
5.5 points--- WGM Regina Pokorna (2352, Slovakia)
5.5 points---WIM Irine Kharisma Sukandar (2243, Indonesia)
4.5 points---WGM Jana Krivec (2362, Slovenia)
4.5 points---WIM Irine Kharisma Sukandar (2243, Indonesia)
2.5 points---WNM Catherine Pereña (2234, Philippines)
1.0 point---WFM Thandar Aye Win (2291, Myanmar)
contributed by MARLON BERNARDINO
Monday, April 21, 2008
SO BEATS MEGARANTO, 4-2, PEREÑA IS 5TH IN JAKARTA CHESS
Final Standings: six games Fide rated one-on-one duel
4.0 points---GM Wesley So (2540, Philippines)
2.0 points---GM Susanto Megaranto (2561, Indonesia)
Final Standings:
Woman Grandmaster Tournament, six player's double round-robin format, Rating Average: 2317, WGM Norm: 6.5 points while WIM Norm: 4.5 points
7.0 points---WGM Li Ruofan (2423, Singapore)
6.5 points--- WGM Regina Pokorna (2352, Slovakia)
6.0 points---WIM Irine Kharisma Sukandar (2243, Indonesia)
5.0 points---WGM Jana Krivec (2362, Slovenia)
4.5 points---WNM Catherine Pereña (2234, Philippines)
1.0 point---WFM Thandar Aye Win (2291, Myanmar)
FILIPINOS Wesley So (2540) and Catherine Pereña (2234) took different route at the conclusion of Japfa Chess Festival 2008 being held at the Indonesian Sports Council Hall in Jakarta, Indonesia, over the weekend.
So, 14, settled for a fighting draw to fellow grandmaster (GM) Indon ace Susanto Megaranto (2561) in their Game 6 match after 67 moves of a Sicilian Defense using the black pieces to finish with a total of 4.0 points on account of three wins, two draws and one loss besting Megaranto's 2.0 points output on one win, two draws and three loses in their six games Fide rated one-on-one duel.
So, added 15 Elo rating points for winning the tough Dubai Chess Cup a week ago is expected to increase and gain more Elo rating points after a stunning wins over Megaranto.
It shall be recalled that GM Rogelio "Joey" Antonio Jr. bested GM Edhi Handoko of Indonesia, 3.5-2.5, in their on-one-one duel was also held in Jakarta (1998) ten years ago.
GM Eugene Torre, the long-time RP vanguard also beat Megaranto, 2.5-1.5, in the last year's edition in Jakarta.
Meanwhile, after tucking Woman International Master (WIM) norm under her belt going to the final round of Woman Grandmaster Tournament, The Caloocan City-based Pereña bowed his last round match to WGM Regina Pokorna (2352) of Slovakia after 34 moves of a Bishop Opening using the black pieces to finish at fifth placers with 4.5 points.
Tournament favorites WGM Li Ruofan (2423) of Singapore blasted WFM Thandar Aye Win (2291) of Myanmar after 27 moves of a Slav Defense using the white pieces to emerge over-all champion with 7.0 points.
The RP woodpushers campaign (who is schedule to arrive the country yesterday) would be possible with the undying support of NCFP president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr., NCFP secretary-general Abraham "Bambol" Tolentino Jr., Filway Marketings Inc. CEO/ President Hector "Chito" Tagaysay and businessman Reginald Tee.
contributed by MARLON BERNARDINO,
4.0 points---GM Wesley So (2540, Philippines)
2.0 points---GM Susanto Megaranto (2561, Indonesia)
Final Standings:
Woman Grandmaster Tournament, six player's double round-robin format, Rating Average: 2317, WGM Norm: 6.5 points while WIM Norm: 4.5 points
7.0 points---WGM Li Ruofan (2423, Singapore)
6.5 points--- WGM Regina Pokorna (2352, Slovakia)
6.0 points---WIM Irine Kharisma Sukandar (2243, Indonesia)
5.0 points---WGM Jana Krivec (2362, Slovenia)
4.5 points---WNM Catherine Pereña (2234, Philippines)
1.0 point---WFM Thandar Aye Win (2291, Myanmar)
FILIPINOS Wesley So (2540) and Catherine Pereña (2234) took different route at the conclusion of Japfa Chess Festival 2008 being held at the Indonesian Sports Council Hall in Jakarta, Indonesia, over the weekend.
So, 14, settled for a fighting draw to fellow grandmaster (GM) Indon ace Susanto Megaranto (2561) in their Game 6 match after 67 moves of a Sicilian Defense using the black pieces to finish with a total of 4.0 points on account of three wins, two draws and one loss besting Megaranto's 2.0 points output on one win, two draws and three loses in their six games Fide rated one-on-one duel.
So, added 15 Elo rating points for winning the tough Dubai Chess Cup a week ago is expected to increase and gain more Elo rating points after a stunning wins over Megaranto.
It shall be recalled that GM Rogelio "Joey" Antonio Jr. bested GM Edhi Handoko of Indonesia, 3.5-2.5, in their on-one-one duel was also held in Jakarta (1998) ten years ago.
GM Eugene Torre, the long-time RP vanguard also beat Megaranto, 2.5-1.5, in the last year's edition in Jakarta.
Meanwhile, after tucking Woman International Master (WIM) norm under her belt going to the final round of Woman Grandmaster Tournament, The Caloocan City-based Pereña bowed his last round match to WGM Regina Pokorna (2352) of Slovakia after 34 moves of a Bishop Opening using the black pieces to finish at fifth placers with 4.5 points.
Tournament favorites WGM Li Ruofan (2423) of Singapore blasted WFM Thandar Aye Win (2291) of Myanmar after 27 moves of a Slav Defense using the white pieces to emerge over-all champion with 7.0 points.
The RP woodpushers campaign (who is schedule to arrive the country yesterday) would be possible with the undying support of NCFP president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr., NCFP secretary-general Abraham "Bambol" Tolentino Jr., Filway Marketings Inc. CEO/ President Hector "Chito" Tagaysay and businessman Reginald Tee.
contributed by MARLON BERNARDINO,
CATHERINE PERENA BOUNCES BACK IN WGM EVENT
Individual Standings after round 5:
Woman Grandmaster Tournament, six player's double round-robin format, Rating Average: 2317, WGM Norm: 6.5 points while WIM Norm: 4.5 points
4.0 points---WGM Li Ruofan (2423, Singapore)
3.5 points--- WGM Regina Pokorna (2352, Slovakia)
2.5 points---WNM Catherine Pereña (2234, Philippines)
2.5 point---WGM Jana Krivec (2362, Slovenia)
2.0 points---WIM Irine Kharisma Sukandar (2243, Indonesia)
0.5 point---WFM Thandar Aye Win (2291, Myanmar)
AFTER suffered her first lost to WGM Regina Pokorna (2352) of Slovakia in the fourth round late Thursday, WNM Catherine Pereña (2234) of the Philippines bounce back in contention after settling draw with WGM Jana Krivec (2362) of Slovenia in the fifth round yesterday of Japfa Chess Festival 2008, six players, Woman Grandmaster Tournament, double round-robin format at the Indonesian Sports Council's hall in Jakarta, Indonesia.
The Caloocan City based Pereña, plaing under the banner of NCFP president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr. and NCFP secretary-general Abraham "Bambol" Tolentino Jr. collect total 2.5 points on one win, three draws and one loss after five games of play, the same output of WGM Krivec. The duo was tied at 3rd to 4th placers.
Top seed WGM Li Ruofan (2423) of Singapore remain on top with 4.0 points. She beat WFM Thandar Aye Win (2291) of Myanmar in the fourth round and split the point qith WIM Irine Kharisma Sukandar (2243) of Indonesia in the fifth round.
WGM Pokorna, meanwhile at solo second place with 3.5 points after beating WNM Perena and WFM Thandar, in order.
contributed by MARLON BERNARDINO
Woman Grandmaster Tournament, six player's double round-robin format, Rating Average: 2317, WGM Norm: 6.5 points while WIM Norm: 4.5 points
4.0 points---WGM Li Ruofan (2423, Singapore)
3.5 points--- WGM Regina Pokorna (2352, Slovakia)
2.5 points---WNM Catherine Pereña (2234, Philippines)
2.5 point---WGM Jana Krivec (2362, Slovenia)
2.0 points---WIM Irine Kharisma Sukandar (2243, Indonesia)
0.5 point---WFM Thandar Aye Win (2291, Myanmar)
AFTER suffered her first lost to WGM Regina Pokorna (2352) of Slovakia in the fourth round late Thursday, WNM Catherine Pereña (2234) of the Philippines bounce back in contention after settling draw with WGM Jana Krivec (2362) of Slovenia in the fifth round yesterday of Japfa Chess Festival 2008, six players, Woman Grandmaster Tournament, double round-robin format at the Indonesian Sports Council's hall in Jakarta, Indonesia.
The Caloocan City based Pereña, plaing under the banner of NCFP president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr. and NCFP secretary-general Abraham "Bambol" Tolentino Jr. collect total 2.5 points on one win, three draws and one loss after five games of play, the same output of WGM Krivec. The duo was tied at 3rd to 4th placers.
Top seed WGM Li Ruofan (2423) of Singapore remain on top with 4.0 points. She beat WFM Thandar Aye Win (2291) of Myanmar in the fourth round and split the point qith WIM Irine Kharisma Sukandar (2243) of Indonesia in the fifth round.
WGM Pokorna, meanwhile at solo second place with 3.5 points after beating WNM Perena and WFM Thandar, in order.
contributed by MARLON BERNARDINO
WESLEY SO TAKE 2-0 LEAD OF SIX-GAME MATCH VS INDON GM
MANILA, PHILIPPINES---IN a battle of young chess masters, Filipino Grandmaster Wesley So snatched the opening game of his six-match battle with fellow GM Susanto Megaranto of Indonesia late Thursday at the Indonesian Sports Council Hall in Jakarta, Indonesia.
The 14-year-old chess wizard So, whose local and international campaign is being supported by NCFP president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr., NCFP secretary-general Abraham "Bambol" Tolentino Jr, Filway Marketing CEO/ President Hector "Chito" Tagaysay and businessman Reginald Tee, playing white, took the opening match in 38 moves of a caro-kann, Bf5 variation.
Last Night (Friday), Wesley won again with the black pieces after 36 moves of a Sicilian Defense to take a 2-0 lead against Megaranto.
Just this week, So won the tough 10TH Dubai Chess Open championship besting several other established GM's in a tournament held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
So is the youngest grandmaster to come out of the Philippines and is the 7th youngest GM ever in the history of the sport. With a current ELO rating of 2540 points, So is still several tournaments away of gaining a Super GM norm. He is also current world youngest GM.
Fellow Filipino and New York based Mark Paragua holds the distinction of being the only Filipino Super GM after obtaining best-ever 2621 Elo, two-years ago (April 1, 2006 seed Fide rating list). He is current ranked no.2 with 2538.
A chesser needs to obtain 2600 ELO to become a full-pledged Super GM.
The 20-year-old Megaranto (2561), Indonesia current number one player, achieved chess stardom when at 17 became the youngest GM in Indonesia's chess history, beating Indon GM Utut Adianto who accomplished the feat at age 21.
The game in Indonesia is the fourth meeting between So and Megaranto with the Filipino winning all five of them.
contributed by NM MARLON BERNARDINO
The 14-year-old chess wizard So, whose local and international campaign is being supported by NCFP president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr., NCFP secretary-general Abraham "Bambol" Tolentino Jr, Filway Marketing CEO/ President Hector "Chito" Tagaysay and businessman Reginald Tee, playing white, took the opening match in 38 moves of a caro-kann, Bf5 variation.
Last Night (Friday), Wesley won again with the black pieces after 36 moves of a Sicilian Defense to take a 2-0 lead against Megaranto.
Just this week, So won the tough 10TH Dubai Chess Open championship besting several other established GM's in a tournament held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
So is the youngest grandmaster to come out of the Philippines and is the 7th youngest GM ever in the history of the sport. With a current ELO rating of 2540 points, So is still several tournaments away of gaining a Super GM norm. He is also current world youngest GM.
Fellow Filipino and New York based Mark Paragua holds the distinction of being the only Filipino Super GM after obtaining best-ever 2621 Elo, two-years ago (April 1, 2006 seed Fide rating list). He is current ranked no.2 with 2538.
A chesser needs to obtain 2600 ELO to become a full-pledged Super GM.
The 20-year-old Megaranto (2561), Indonesia current number one player, achieved chess stardom when at 17 became the youngest GM in Indonesia's chess history, beating Indon GM Utut Adianto who accomplished the feat at age 21.
The game in Indonesia is the fourth meeting between So and Megaranto with the Filipino winning all five of them.
contributed by NM MARLON BERNARDINO
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
PERENA AND SO IN INDONESIA
CATHERINE PERENA NOTCHES BACK-TO-BACK DRAWS IN INDONESIA CHESS
WOMAN National Master Catherine Pereña kept the Philippine flag flying high after scoring back to back draws at the start of JAPFA 2008 Chess Festival six-women's player round-robin tournament at the National Sports Council (KONI) headquarters in Central Jakarta in Indonesia.
The Caloocan City resident Perena, who holds an Elo rating of 2234 held into a draw tournament favorite Woman Grandmaster (WGM) Li Ruofan (2423) of Singapore in the opening round on Tuesday then split the point with Woman International Master (WIM) Irine Kharisma Sukandar (2243) of Indonesia in the second round on Wednesday.
Perena's stint here is supported by NCFP president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr. and NCFP secretary-general Abraham "Bambol" Tolentino Jr.
" Maganda ang simula ng laro ni Catherine (Pereña), sana makakuha siya ng norm diyan sa Indonesia Chess," said Pichay yesterday.
In other matches yesterday, WGM Li beat WGM Regina Pokorna (2352) of Slovakia while WGM Jana Krivec (2362) of Slovenia settled a draw with Women's FIDE Master (WFM) Thandar Aye Win of Myanmar.
WESLEY SO BATTLES SUSANTO MEGARANTO IN ONE ON ONE MATCH
WESLEY SO, 14, the current world youngest grandmaster in the world will continue his streak after winning the 10th Dubai Open Chess Cup last Monday. He will meet fellow GM Susanto Megaranto of Indonesia in a one-on-one match last night in Jakarta, Indonesia.
This was bared yesterday by NCFP director Wilfredo "Willie" Abalos in an interview. "Mamya (kagabi) kakalabanin ni Wesley (So) si Susanto (Megaranto), hope magpatuloy ang kanyang pananalasa," said Abalos.
" Bali standard (classical chess) ang time-control at may tig six games," he added.
So holds an Elo rating of 2540 while Megaranto had a higher 2561, both players are ranked No.1 in their respective countries.
So made prominence when he finished in a tie for first place in the 2005 World Youth Chess Championships in Belfort, France.
Meanwhile, two Big Open Tournaments with $70,000 in cash prizes are scheduled in the Philippines next month. The 2nd Philippine Open International Tournament is scheduled May 6 to May 15 at the La Legenda Hotel in Subic Bay Freeport followed immediately by the 3rd Philippine Open from May 15 to 24 in nearby Pampanga. Both tournaments shall be 11-round Swiss system events, The events are organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines headed by Hon. Prospero Pichay.
contributed by MARLON BERNARDINO, edited by jovie sison
WOMAN National Master Catherine Pereña kept the Philippine flag flying high after scoring back to back draws at the start of JAPFA 2008 Chess Festival six-women's player round-robin tournament at the National Sports Council (KONI) headquarters in Central Jakarta in Indonesia.
The Caloocan City resident Perena, who holds an Elo rating of 2234 held into a draw tournament favorite Woman Grandmaster (WGM) Li Ruofan (2423) of Singapore in the opening round on Tuesday then split the point with Woman International Master (WIM) Irine Kharisma Sukandar (2243) of Indonesia in the second round on Wednesday.
Perena's stint here is supported by NCFP president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr. and NCFP secretary-general Abraham "Bambol" Tolentino Jr.
" Maganda ang simula ng laro ni Catherine (Pereña), sana makakuha siya ng norm diyan sa Indonesia Chess," said Pichay yesterday.
In other matches yesterday, WGM Li beat WGM Regina Pokorna (2352) of Slovakia while WGM Jana Krivec (2362) of Slovenia settled a draw with Women's FIDE Master (WFM) Thandar Aye Win of Myanmar.
WESLEY SO BATTLES SUSANTO MEGARANTO IN ONE ON ONE MATCH
WESLEY SO, 14, the current world youngest grandmaster in the world will continue his streak after winning the 10th Dubai Open Chess Cup last Monday. He will meet fellow GM Susanto Megaranto of Indonesia in a one-on-one match last night in Jakarta, Indonesia.
This was bared yesterday by NCFP director Wilfredo "Willie" Abalos in an interview. "Mamya (kagabi) kakalabanin ni Wesley (So) si Susanto (Megaranto), hope magpatuloy ang kanyang pananalasa," said Abalos.
" Bali standard (classical chess) ang time-control at may tig six games," he added.
So holds an Elo rating of 2540 while Megaranto had a higher 2561, both players are ranked No.1 in their respective countries.
So made prominence when he finished in a tie for first place in the 2005 World Youth Chess Championships in Belfort, France.
Meanwhile, two Big Open Tournaments with $70,000 in cash prizes are scheduled in the Philippines next month. The 2nd Philippine Open International Tournament is scheduled May 6 to May 15 at the La Legenda Hotel in Subic Bay Freeport followed immediately by the 3rd Philippine Open from May 15 to 24 in nearby Pampanga. Both tournaments shall be 11-round Swiss system events, The events are organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines headed by Hon. Prospero Pichay.
contributed by MARLON BERNARDINO, edited by jovie sison
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
WESLEY SO WINS DUBAI OPEN CHESS
GAINS 15 ELO POINTS AND TOTAL PERFORMANCE RATING OF 2708
RP WHIZ KID Wesley So (2540), currently the youngest grandmaster in the world is this year's winner of the just concluded annual $45,000 Dubai Open Chess Championshionships dubbed as The Sheikh Rashed Bin Hamdan Al Maktoum Cup at the Dubai Chess Club in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on Sunday.
The 14-year-old So, finished with 7.0 points on account of six wins, one loss and two draws after nine games of play, the same output of runner-up GMs Merab Gagunashvili of Georgia, third placer GM Ehsan Ghaem Maghami of Iran and fourth placer GM Li Chao of China.
Wesley took the championship trophy, the Sheikh Rashed Bin Hamdan Al Maktoum Cup after tie break points was applied. Each of them received US $4,500 after the four players split the combined prize of US$18,000 for the top four finishers.
Wesley received a congratulatory telephone call from National Chess Federation of the Philippines President Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr. late Sunday.
"Kahanga-hanga ang performance ni Wesley (So) sa Dubai Open Chess, pinakita niya ulit sa buong mundo kung gaano kahusay tayong mga Filipino sa larong chess. Siya ang modelo at halimbawa ng ating mga kabataan na ayon nga kay Dr. Jose Rizal ang pag-asa ng bayan," said Pichay, who already produced three grandmasters under his term, Wesley So, Darwin Laylo and Jayson Gonzales.
According to Wesley's spokesman and businessman Reginald Tee, the Bacoor, Cavite kid campaigner (Wesley So), gained an Elo rating of 15 points after a superb total performance (TPR) of 2708. Wesley also set a record for becoming the youngest Dubai Open Chess champion at the age of 14. This is the 10th anniversary of this tournament where 131 players from 25 countries participated, composed of 29 GM/WGM, 21 IM/WIM and 22 FM/WFM.
"Nag plus 15 Eo rating points si Wesley (So) sa Dubai Open Chess at may TPR (Total Performance Rating) 2708 siyang nakamada," said Tee.
Filipino delegate Casto "Toti" Abundo, who also served as chief arbiter in the Dubai chessfest said that Wesley's next stop is Indonesia where he will compete with their champion, GM Susanto Megaranto before returning home to the Philippines and participate in the Battle of Philippine Grandmasters before end of the month.
In the ninth and final round, Wesley split the point with Li after 18 moves of a Sicilian Defense, Accelerated Dragon skirmish on board 1 while Gagunashvili also halved the point with GM Valeriy Neverov of Ukraine on board 2.
Other Filipino players who participated were IM Julio Catalino Sadorra (5.0 points), journalist Jobannie Tabada (5.0 points), FM Antonio Molina (4.5 points), Ernesto Yap (4.5 points) and NM Robert Arellano (3.5 points).
contributed by MARLON BERNARDINO, edited by jovie sison
RP WHIZ KID Wesley So (2540), currently the youngest grandmaster in the world is this year's winner of the just concluded annual $45,000 Dubai Open Chess Championshionships dubbed as The Sheikh Rashed Bin Hamdan Al Maktoum Cup at the Dubai Chess Club in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on Sunday.
The 14-year-old So, finished with 7.0 points on account of six wins, one loss and two draws after nine games of play, the same output of runner-up GMs Merab Gagunashvili of Georgia, third placer GM Ehsan Ghaem Maghami of Iran and fourth placer GM Li Chao of China.
Wesley took the championship trophy, the Sheikh Rashed Bin Hamdan Al Maktoum Cup after tie break points was applied. Each of them received US $4,500 after the four players split the combined prize of US$18,000 for the top four finishers.
Wesley received a congratulatory telephone call from National Chess Federation of the Philippines President Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr. late Sunday.
"Kahanga-hanga ang performance ni Wesley (So) sa Dubai Open Chess, pinakita niya ulit sa buong mundo kung gaano kahusay tayong mga Filipino sa larong chess. Siya ang modelo at halimbawa ng ating mga kabataan na ayon nga kay Dr. Jose Rizal ang pag-asa ng bayan," said Pichay, who already produced three grandmasters under his term, Wesley So, Darwin Laylo and Jayson Gonzales.
According to Wesley's spokesman and businessman Reginald Tee, the Bacoor, Cavite kid campaigner (Wesley So), gained an Elo rating of 15 points after a superb total performance (TPR) of 2708. Wesley also set a record for becoming the youngest Dubai Open Chess champion at the age of 14. This is the 10th anniversary of this tournament where 131 players from 25 countries participated, composed of 29 GM/WGM, 21 IM/WIM and 22 FM/WFM.
"Nag plus 15 Eo rating points si Wesley (So) sa Dubai Open Chess at may TPR (Total Performance Rating) 2708 siyang nakamada," said Tee.
Filipino delegate Casto "Toti" Abundo, who also served as chief arbiter in the Dubai chessfest said that Wesley's next stop is Indonesia where he will compete with their champion, GM Susanto Megaranto before returning home to the Philippines and participate in the Battle of Philippine Grandmasters before end of the month.
In the ninth and final round, Wesley split the point with Li after 18 moves of a Sicilian Defense, Accelerated Dragon skirmish on board 1 while Gagunashvili also halved the point with GM Valeriy Neverov of Ukraine on board 2.
Other Filipino players who participated were IM Julio Catalino Sadorra (5.0 points), journalist Jobannie Tabada (5.0 points), FM Antonio Molina (4.5 points), Ernesto Yap (4.5 points) and NM Robert Arellano (3.5 points).
contributed by MARLON BERNARDINO, edited by jovie sison
Sunday, April 13, 2008
WESLEY SO BEATS INDIAN GM IN DUBAI CHESS
FILIPINO GM Wesley So (2540) defeated No.19 Indian GM Abhijeet Gupta (2521) in just 28 moves of a Spanish Opening in the seventh round to bounce back in contention in the ongoing annual $45,000 Dubai Open dubbed as The Sheikh Rashed Bin Hamdan Al Maktoum Cup at the Dubai Chess Club in United Arab Emirates, on Saturday.
The Indian GM made mistake in his 11th move by castling in the queen's side allowing the Filipino GM to get a superior position and later get the queen of his opponent enroute to victory in 28 moves and raise his tally to 6.0 points in seven outings.
The 14-year-old So, earlier fell short to No. 15 Georgian GM Merab Gagunashvili (2553) after 75 moves of a Queen's Indian Defense in the sixth round. Wesley aims to became the first Filipino Super Grandmaster (2600) under the term of NCFP president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr.
New York based Mark Paragua, tallied 2621 a few years ago, the highest Elo of a Filipino under the leadership of Mat Defensor and Go Teng Kok.
contributed by MARLON BERNARDINO, edited by jovie sison.
The Indian GM made mistake in his 11th move by castling in the queen's side allowing the Filipino GM to get a superior position and later get the queen of his opponent enroute to victory in 28 moves and raise his tally to 6.0 points in seven outings.
The 14-year-old So, earlier fell short to No. 15 Georgian GM Merab Gagunashvili (2553) after 75 moves of a Queen's Indian Defense in the sixth round. Wesley aims to became the first Filipino Super Grandmaster (2600) under the term of NCFP president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr.
New York based Mark Paragua, tallied 2621 a few years ago, the highest Elo of a Filipino under the leadership of Mat Defensor and Go Teng Kok.
contributed by MARLON BERNARDINO, edited by jovie sison.
Saturday, April 12, 2008
WESLEY SO GRABS SOLO LEAD IN DUBAI CHESS
RP Whiz Kid and No.16 seed, GM Wesley So (2540) toppled over-night co-leader No.33 FM Saleh Salem (2429) of the host country to grab solo leadership after the fifth round of the annual $45,000 Dubai Open dubbed as The Sheikh Rashed Bin Hamdan Al Maktoum Cup being held at the Dubai Chess Club in United Arab Emirates yesterday.
The 14-year-old undefeated So raised his total to 5.0 points and will meet No. 15 GM Merab Gagunashvili (2553) of Georgia in the next round, who won over No.10 GM Tigran Kotanjian (2570) of Armenia.
Gagunashvili, on the other hand took solo second place with 4.5 points, half point ahead with 13 other players with identical 4.0 points each.
No. 29 IM Julio Catalino Saddora (2455) also of the Philippines, suffered his first loss at the hands of No. 6 GM David Arutinian (2593) of Georgia. The loss drops him to 31st place with 3.0 points.
Other Filipino entries in the event are journalist Jobannie Tabada (3.0), FM Antonio Molina (2.0), NM Robert Arellano (2.0) and Ernesto Yap (2.0).
contributed by MARLON BERNARDINO, edited by jovie sison
The 14-year-old undefeated So raised his total to 5.0 points and will meet No. 15 GM Merab Gagunashvili (2553) of Georgia in the next round, who won over No.10 GM Tigran Kotanjian (2570) of Armenia.
Gagunashvili, on the other hand took solo second place with 4.5 points, half point ahead with 13 other players with identical 4.0 points each.
No. 29 IM Julio Catalino Saddora (2455) also of the Philippines, suffered his first loss at the hands of No. 6 GM David Arutinian (2593) of Georgia. The loss drops him to 31st place with 3.0 points.
Other Filipino entries in the event are journalist Jobannie Tabada (3.0), FM Antonio Molina (2.0), NM Robert Arellano (2.0) and Ernesto Yap (2.0).
contributed by MARLON BERNARDINO, edited by jovie sison
Friday, April 11, 2008
WESLEY SO BEATS REIGNING WORLD JR CHAMP; TIES LEAD IN DUBAI CHESS
Dubai Chess, Individual Standings after round 4:
4.0 points---GM Wesley So (PHILIPPINES), FM Saleh Salem (UAE)
3.5 points---GM Tamaz Gelashvili (Georgia), GM Abhijeet Gupta (India), GM Yuri Drozdovskij (Ukraine), GM Tigran Kotanjian (Armenia), GM Pavel Kotsur (Kazakhstan), GM Merab Gagunashvili (Georgia)
3.0 points---IM Julio Catalino Sadorra (PHILIPPINES)…23 others
DUBAI---RP Whiz Kid No.16 pick GM Wesley So (2540) continued his impressive performance by demolishing reigning world junior champion No.9 GM Ahmed Adly (2578) of Egypt to share the lead with No.33 FM Saleh Salem (2429) of the host country, who beat No.13 Zhou Weiqi (2560) of China after the fourth round of the annual $45,000 Dubai Open dubbed as The Sheikh Rashed Bin Hamdan Al Maktoum Cup being held at the Dubai Chess Club in United Arab Emirates on Thursday.
Interestingly, both So and Salem, are 14-years-old and will dispute the leadership board in the next round after tallying identical 4.0 points apiece.
"I felt very happy when I became a Grandmaster. Maybe I will become a model for my fellow players. My aim now is to become a super Grandmaster," So said in a local newspaper (Gulf News).
So is currently the youngest world Grandmaster and seventh youngest in chess history. He clinched a place in history last December at the age of 14 years, one month and 28 days. He is also the top Philippine Player in the April 1, 2008 FIDE rating list.
So, whose local and International campaign is supported by NCFP president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr. and Filway Marketing Inc. CEO/President Hector Tagaysay learned the game of chess at the age of seven.
"Both Wesley (So) and Ino (Sadorra) are in the right track. I hope they can maintain the momentum until the next round," said NCFP president Pichay.
Meanwhile, No.29 IM Julio Catalino Sadorra (2455) held another draw this time against No.8 GM Li Chao (2581) of China to accumulate a total 3.0 points on two wins and two draws. The Singapore-based Sadorra who also drew with No.10 GM Tigran Kotanjian (2570) of Armenia in the third round climbed into a tie for 9th to 32nd placers along with fifth round opponent No.6 GM David Arutinian (2593) of Georgia, who also drew with No. 17 GM Rasul Ibrahimov (2535) of Azerbaijan.
Not as fortunate were oversees Filipino workers, former RP kiddie champion NM Robert Arellano and journalist Jobannie Tabada who lost their respective rivals. Arellano bowed to Amin Nasrin of Iran while Tabada succumbed to IM Mas Hafizulhelmi of Malaysia. Arellano and Tabada joints 51st place with 2.0 points each together with FM Antonio Molina, who crushed Amil Ali Taghikhani of Iran. Another Filipino entry Ernesto Yap remains at 1.0 point losing to FM Srinath Narayanan of India.
contributed by MARLON BERNARDINO, edited by jovie sison
4.0 points---GM Wesley So (PHILIPPINES), FM Saleh Salem (UAE)
3.5 points---GM Tamaz Gelashvili (Georgia), GM Abhijeet Gupta (India), GM Yuri Drozdovskij (Ukraine), GM Tigran Kotanjian (Armenia), GM Pavel Kotsur (Kazakhstan), GM Merab Gagunashvili (Georgia)
3.0 points---IM Julio Catalino Sadorra (PHILIPPINES)…23 others
DUBAI---RP Whiz Kid No.16 pick GM Wesley So (2540) continued his impressive performance by demolishing reigning world junior champion No.9 GM Ahmed Adly (2578) of Egypt to share the lead with No.33 FM Saleh Salem (2429) of the host country, who beat No.13 Zhou Weiqi (2560) of China after the fourth round of the annual $45,000 Dubai Open dubbed as The Sheikh Rashed Bin Hamdan Al Maktoum Cup being held at the Dubai Chess Club in United Arab Emirates on Thursday.
Interestingly, both So and Salem, are 14-years-old and will dispute the leadership board in the next round after tallying identical 4.0 points apiece.
"I felt very happy when I became a Grandmaster. Maybe I will become a model for my fellow players. My aim now is to become a super Grandmaster," So said in a local newspaper (Gulf News).
So is currently the youngest world Grandmaster and seventh youngest in chess history. He clinched a place in history last December at the age of 14 years, one month and 28 days. He is also the top Philippine Player in the April 1, 2008 FIDE rating list.
So, whose local and International campaign is supported by NCFP president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr. and Filway Marketing Inc. CEO/President Hector Tagaysay learned the game of chess at the age of seven.
"Both Wesley (So) and Ino (Sadorra) are in the right track. I hope they can maintain the momentum until the next round," said NCFP president Pichay.
Meanwhile, No.29 IM Julio Catalino Sadorra (2455) held another draw this time against No.8 GM Li Chao (2581) of China to accumulate a total 3.0 points on two wins and two draws. The Singapore-based Sadorra who also drew with No.10 GM Tigran Kotanjian (2570) of Armenia in the third round climbed into a tie for 9th to 32nd placers along with fifth round opponent No.6 GM David Arutinian (2593) of Georgia, who also drew with No. 17 GM Rasul Ibrahimov (2535) of Azerbaijan.
Not as fortunate were oversees Filipino workers, former RP kiddie champion NM Robert Arellano and journalist Jobannie Tabada who lost their respective rivals. Arellano bowed to Amin Nasrin of Iran while Tabada succumbed to IM Mas Hafizulhelmi of Malaysia. Arellano and Tabada joints 51st place with 2.0 points each together with FM Antonio Molina, who crushed Amil Ali Taghikhani of Iran. Another Filipino entry Ernesto Yap remains at 1.0 point losing to FM Srinath Narayanan of India.
contributed by MARLON BERNARDINO, edited by jovie sison
WESLEY SO UPSETS GEORGIAN GM
GAINS A SHARE OF LEAD IN DUBAI CHESS CUP
Individual Standings after round 3:
3.0 points---GM Wesley So (PHILIPPINES), GM Abhijeet Gupta (India), GM Yuri Drozdovskij (Ukraine), GM Ahmed Adly (Egypt), GM Pavel Kotsur (Kazakhstan), GM Merab Gagunashvili (Georgia), FM Saleh Salem (UAE), Zhou Weiqi (China)
2.5 points---IM Julio Catalino Sadorra (PHILIPPINES)…
RP Whiz Kid No.16 pick GM Wesley So (2540) continued his hot streak as the country's top player by defeating No.3 GM Levan Pantsulaia (2617) of Georgia using the disadvantageous black pieces and gain a share of lead along seven others after three rounds of the annual $45,000 Dubai Open dubbed as The Sheikh Rashed Bin Hamdan Al Maktoum Cup being held at the Dubai Chess Club in United Arab Emirates, on Wednesday.
Also with perfect 3.0 points aside from So are GM Abhijeet Gupta of India, GM Yuri Drozdovskij of Ukraine, GM Ahmed Adly of Egypt, GM Pavel Kotsur of Kazakhstan, GM Merab Gagunashvili of Georgia, FM Saleh Salem of United Arab Emirates and Zhou Weiqi of China.
So, whose local and International campaign is supported by NCFP president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr. and Filway Marketing Inc. CEO/President Hector Tagaysay will square off with No.9 GM Adly (2578), the reigning world junior champion, who beat No.28 GM RB Ramesh (2472) of India.
Meanwhile, No.29 IM Julio Catalino Sadorra (2455) held into a draw with No.10 GM Tigran Kotanjian (2570) of Armenia to raise his total to 2.5 points and share ninth to 19th placers together with fourth round opponent No.8 GM Li Chao (2581) of China, who also drew with No.25 IM RR Laxman (2488) of India.
Two oversees Filipino workers former RP kiddie champion NM Robert Arellano and journalist Jobannie Tabada also won their third round matches for 2.0 points each after three games of play and joints 20th to 61st placers. Arellano beat C Natarajan of India while Tabada shocked FM Abdo Somoff of Libya.
FM Antonio Molina bowed to Amin Nasri of Iran to remains at 1.0 point along with fellow OFW Ernesto Yap, who beat Ali Abdulaziz of the host country.
According to chief arbiter Filipino Casto "Toti" Abundo, the annual event being held celebrating its 10th anniversary this year with 131 players from 25 countries in the tournament which attracted 29 GM/WGM, 21 IM/WIM and 22 FM/WFM.
contributed by MARLON BERNARDINO, edited by jovie sison
Individual Standings after round 3:
3.0 points---GM Wesley So (PHILIPPINES), GM Abhijeet Gupta (India), GM Yuri Drozdovskij (Ukraine), GM Ahmed Adly (Egypt), GM Pavel Kotsur (Kazakhstan), GM Merab Gagunashvili (Georgia), FM Saleh Salem (UAE), Zhou Weiqi (China)
2.5 points---IM Julio Catalino Sadorra (PHILIPPINES)…
RP Whiz Kid No.16 pick GM Wesley So (2540) continued his hot streak as the country's top player by defeating No.3 GM Levan Pantsulaia (2617) of Georgia using the disadvantageous black pieces and gain a share of lead along seven others after three rounds of the annual $45,000 Dubai Open dubbed as The Sheikh Rashed Bin Hamdan Al Maktoum Cup being held at the Dubai Chess Club in United Arab Emirates, on Wednesday.
Also with perfect 3.0 points aside from So are GM Abhijeet Gupta of India, GM Yuri Drozdovskij of Ukraine, GM Ahmed Adly of Egypt, GM Pavel Kotsur of Kazakhstan, GM Merab Gagunashvili of Georgia, FM Saleh Salem of United Arab Emirates and Zhou Weiqi of China.
So, whose local and International campaign is supported by NCFP president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr. and Filway Marketing Inc. CEO/President Hector Tagaysay will square off with No.9 GM Adly (2578), the reigning world junior champion, who beat No.28 GM RB Ramesh (2472) of India.
Meanwhile, No.29 IM Julio Catalino Sadorra (2455) held into a draw with No.10 GM Tigran Kotanjian (2570) of Armenia to raise his total to 2.5 points and share ninth to 19th placers together with fourth round opponent No.8 GM Li Chao (2581) of China, who also drew with No.25 IM RR Laxman (2488) of India.
Two oversees Filipino workers former RP kiddie champion NM Robert Arellano and journalist Jobannie Tabada also won their third round matches for 2.0 points each after three games of play and joints 20th to 61st placers. Arellano beat C Natarajan of India while Tabada shocked FM Abdo Somoff of Libya.
FM Antonio Molina bowed to Amin Nasri of Iran to remains at 1.0 point along with fellow OFW Ernesto Yap, who beat Ali Abdulaziz of the host country.
According to chief arbiter Filipino Casto "Toti" Abundo, the annual event being held celebrating its 10th anniversary this year with 131 players from 25 countries in the tournament which attracted 29 GM/WGM, 21 IM/WIM and 22 FM/WFM.
contributed by MARLON BERNARDINO, edited by jovie sison
BATTLE OF GRANDMASTERS, APRIL 19-30
BATTLE OF THE GRANDMASTERS GOES TO MANILA PAVILION ON APRIL 19
MANILA---ALL roads lead to the Manila Pavilion on United Nations (UN) Avenue when the much awaited Battle of Grandmasters takes place on April 19 to 30.
This was revealed by National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr. in a recent interview.
"Tuloy na tuloy na" said Pichay, who produced three grandmaster under his term---Wesley So, Darwin Laylo and Jayson Gonzales.
NCFP director WillyAbalos said that 12 leading male players, including six of the country's seven grandmasters, have each made a definite commitment to play in the tournament.
On the distaff side, he said 12 of a short list of 14 ladies have made the same commitment.
Here is the lineup for the Men's Division: GMs Wesley So (2540), Mark Paragua (2537), Joey Antonio (2529), Eugene Torre (2519), Jayson Gonzales (2467), and Bong Villamayor (2425); IMs John Paul Gomez (2464) and Julio Catalino Sadorra (2455); FM Fernie Donguines (2362); and NMs Rolando Nolte (2420), Oliver Barbosa (2403) and Hamed Nouri (2392).
Here are the women who have pledged to join the mixed tournament: Catherine Pereña (2234), Sherily (2132) and Shercila Cua (2203), Rulp Ylem Jose (2044), Jenny Rose Paloma, Jedara Docena, Aices Salvador (1998), WIM Beverly Mendoza (2072), Chardine Cheradee Camacho (2106), Kimberly Jane Cunanan, Christy Lamiel Bernales, and Enerose Magno. Abalos said he was also inviting Loreshyl Cuison and WFM Sheerie Joy Lomibao (2185), but he had not heard from them.
contributed by MARLON BERNARDINO, edited by jovie sison
MANILA---ALL roads lead to the Manila Pavilion on United Nations (UN) Avenue when the much awaited Battle of Grandmasters takes place on April 19 to 30.
This was revealed by National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr. in a recent interview.
"Tuloy na tuloy na" said Pichay, who produced three grandmaster under his term---Wesley So, Darwin Laylo and Jayson Gonzales.
NCFP director WillyAbalos said that 12 leading male players, including six of the country's seven grandmasters, have each made a definite commitment to play in the tournament.
On the distaff side, he said 12 of a short list of 14 ladies have made the same commitment.
Here is the lineup for the Men's Division: GMs Wesley So (2540), Mark Paragua (2537), Joey Antonio (2529), Eugene Torre (2519), Jayson Gonzales (2467), and Bong Villamayor (2425); IMs John Paul Gomez (2464) and Julio Catalino Sadorra (2455); FM Fernie Donguines (2362); and NMs Rolando Nolte (2420), Oliver Barbosa (2403) and Hamed Nouri (2392).
Here are the women who have pledged to join the mixed tournament: Catherine Pereña (2234), Sherily (2132) and Shercila Cua (2203), Rulp Ylem Jose (2044), Jenny Rose Paloma, Jedara Docena, Aices Salvador (1998), WIM Beverly Mendoza (2072), Chardine Cheradee Camacho (2106), Kimberly Jane Cunanan, Christy Lamiel Bernales, and Enerose Magno. Abalos said he was also inviting Loreshyl Cuison and WFM Sheerie Joy Lomibao (2185), but he had not heard from them.
contributed by MARLON BERNARDINO, edited by jovie sison
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
DUBAI CHESS + BANGKOK CHESS CUPS
SO, SADORA POSTS BACK TO BACK WINS IN DUBAI CHESS CUP
COUNTRY'S top player GM Wesley So (2540) and IM Julio Catalino Sadorra (2455) hurdled their respective assignment to remain undefeated after posting two successive wins for a share of the lead with 23 others, after two rounds of the the annual $45,000 Dubai Open dubbed as The Sheikh Rashed Bin Hamdan Al Maktoum Cup being held at the Dubai Chess Club in United Arab Emirates, on Tuesday.
The No.16 pick So, whose local and International campaign is supported by NCFP president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr. and Filway Marketing Inc. CEO/President Hector Tagaysay trounced No.81 Ali Al Sulaiti (2161) of Brunei and No.48 FM Wu Xibin (2351) of China, in order, to meet No.3 GM Levan Pantsulaia (2617) of Georgia using the disadvantageous black pieces in the third round, who came a big wins over No. 68 FM Ulvi Bajarani (2234) of Azerbaijan and No.39 IM Mas Hafizulhelmi (2396) of Malaysia, respectively.
While the No.29 seed Sadorra, clobbered No.94 Khosla Shiven (2086) of India and No. 63 Omid Noroozi (2274) of Iran. The Singapore-based Sadorra will square off No.10 GM Tigran Kotanjian (2570) of Armenia in the next round, winner over No.75 Sabri Al Mahayri (2202) of Syria and No.42 IM Lanka Ravi (2382) of India.
Three Filipino oversees worker - Fide Master Antonio Molina (2150), former Philippine kiddie champion NM Robert Arellano (2023) and journalist Jobannie Tabada (2057) are joint 41st placers while Ernesto Yap still has to make a point.
According to chief arbiter Filipino Casto "Toti" Abundo, the annual event in now on its 10th anniversary this year with 131 players from 25 countries in the tournament that attracted 29 GM/WGM, 21 IM/WIM and 22 FM/WFM.
CEBUANO BITOON FINISH 5TH IN BANGKOK CHESS
FILIPINO International Master Richard Bitoon (2420) held to a draw, top seed GM Varuzhan Akobian (2601) of the United States in the ninth and final round to settle for fifth place in the just ended 8th annual Bangkok Chess Club Open 2008 at the Century Park Hotel in Bangkok, Thailand over the weekend.
The Cebuano native Bitoon, a protege of NM Matias "Bombi" Aznar finished with 6.5 points on acocunt of six wins, one draw and two loses after nine games of play, the same output of WIM Qianyun Gong (2226) of China whom he beat in the tie break for 5th spot.
Another Filipino entry FM Roderick Nava (2345), who hails from Carmona, Cavite bowed to eventual champion Deschun Xiu (2371) of China in the final round but took over-all seventh place with 6.0 points along with 10 others.
Nava's Far Eastern University (FEU) team mate Christian Arroyo landed at 32nd place with 5.0 points while unheralded Eladio Parco is far at 62nd place with 4.0 points. Actually, this annual event which lured 99 players was dominated by the Chinese with clear first place Xiu (8.0 points), runner-up Ziyang Zhang (7.5 points) and third placer GM Li Shilong (7.0 points) who beat fourth placer fellow GM Akobian (7.0 points) in the tie breaker.
The Filipinos campaign here in Bangkok was supported by no less than National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr.
WESLEY SO, 14, NOW NO.1 IN RP APRIL 2008 FIDE RATING LIST; WINS DUBAI
WESLEY SO, 14, heads the April 1, 2008 Fide (World Chess Federation) ratings list of 100 Filipino players, with an Elo of 2540, his highest yet.
The world's youngest GM from Bacoor, Cavite also won his opening match yesterday against Al Sulaiti Ali (2161) of Brunei in the annually $45,000 Dubai Open dubbed as The Sheikh Rashed Bin Hamdan Al Maktoum Cup being held at the Dubai Chess Club in United Arab Emirates.
The No.16 seed So will square off FM Wu Xibin (2351) of China in the next round being held celebrating its 10th anniversary this year with 131 players from 25 countries in the tournament with 29 GM/WGM, 21 IM/WIM and 22 FM/WGM according to chief arbiter Filipino Casto "Toti" Abundo.
National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr. is very optimistic that the young So can brake the 2600 ELO barrier and become the first Super Grandmaster under his term.
"No doubt na ma achieve ni Wesley (So) y'ung 2600 Fide ELO rating points. Palagi tayong nasa tabi niya para tumulong sa kanyang mga pangarap sa larangan ng Chess," said Pichay in a recent interview who bankrolled the trip of So in Dubai Open.
This early, it seem So, one of the "Super Pinoy: was cited by Bandera Newspaper two years ago, that So can spearhead the Philippine team that will compete in the 38th Men's Olympiad in Dresden, Germany in November.
Close on his heels is Mark Paragua (2537), who is fresh from winning the Original 4 Rated Games Tonight last April 3 at the Chess Center of New York in Manhattan, New York, USA. The former Super GM whose best ELO is at 2621, the highest for a Filipino, finished undefeated with four wins in New York Chess.
Former No. 1 GM Rogelio "Joey" Antonio Jr.,an enlisted personnel of the Philippine Army kept his rating of 2529. This would have gone up had the results of the recent Sydney International Open been included in the tally.
RP long-time vanguard GM Eugene Torre was No. 4 with 2519, followed by Europe based IM Joseph Sanchez (2507), GM Darwin Laylo (2496), IM Oliver Dimakiling (2479), GM Jayson Gonzales (2467), IM John Paul Gomez (2464), and IM Julio Catalino Sadorra (2455).
Gonzales' title on the Fide rating list is still IM, but a more recent posting on its official website said Fide's presidential assembly had ratified the Filipino's new GM title.
No.14 Rolando Nolte (2420) and No.20 Oliver Barbosa's (2403) new IM title is expected to be ratified soon.
Meanwhile No. 83 Sherily Cua (2132) having set a Philippine-Australian record of sorts by being the only player out of 105 to win a Fide norm—WIM—in last week's Sydney International Open at the Parramata Town Hall in the capital of New South Wales according to the electronic mail Weekender report.
GM Viswanathan Anand (2803) of India took the No.1 spot in top 100 players in the world while Judit Polgar (2709) of Hungrary is alone of top in the top 50 women's players.
BATTLE OF THE GRANDMASTERS GOES TO MANILA PAVILION ON APRIL 19
ALL roads to the Manila Pavilion on United Nation (UN) Avenue when the much awaited Battle of Grandmasters takes its first move on April 19 to 30 in Ermita, Manila.
This was revealed by National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr. in a recent interview.
"Tuloy na tuloy na" said Pichay, who produced three grandmaster under his term---Wesley So, Darwin Laylo and Jayson Gonzales.
NCFP director Willy Abalos said in the Weekender report that 12 leading male players, including six of the country's seven grandmasters, have each made a definite commitment to play in the tournament.
On the distaff side, he said 12 of a short list of 14 amazons have made the same commitment.
Here is the lineup for the Men's Division: GMs Wesley So (2540), Mark Paragua (2537), Joey Antonio (2529), Eugene Torre (2519), Jayson Gonzales (2467), and Bong Villamayor (2425); IMs John Paul Gomez (2464) and Julio Catalino Sadorra (2455); FM Fernie Donguines (2362); and NMs Rolando Nolte (2420), Oliver Barbosa (2403) and Hamed Nouri(2392).
Here are the women who have pledged to join the mixed tournament: Catherine Pereña (2234), Sherily (2132) and Shercila Cua (2203), Rulp Ylem Jose (2044), Jenny Rose Paloma, Jedara Docena, Aices Salvador (1998), WIM Beverly Mendoza (2072), Chardine Cheradee Camacho (2106), Kimberly Jane Cunanan, Christy Lamiel Bernales, and Enerose Magno. Abalos said he was also inviting Loreshyl Cuison and WFM Sheerie Joy Lomibao (2185), but he had not heard from them.
contributed by MARLON BERNARDINO, edited by jovie sison.
COUNTRY'S top player GM Wesley So (2540) and IM Julio Catalino Sadorra (2455) hurdled their respective assignment to remain undefeated after posting two successive wins for a share of the lead with 23 others, after two rounds of the the annual $45,000 Dubai Open dubbed as The Sheikh Rashed Bin Hamdan Al Maktoum Cup being held at the Dubai Chess Club in United Arab Emirates, on Tuesday.
The No.16 pick So, whose local and International campaign is supported by NCFP president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr. and Filway Marketing Inc. CEO/President Hector Tagaysay trounced No.81 Ali Al Sulaiti (2161) of Brunei and No.48 FM Wu Xibin (2351) of China, in order, to meet No.3 GM Levan Pantsulaia (2617) of Georgia using the disadvantageous black pieces in the third round, who came a big wins over No. 68 FM Ulvi Bajarani (2234) of Azerbaijan and No.39 IM Mas Hafizulhelmi (2396) of Malaysia, respectively.
While the No.29 seed Sadorra, clobbered No.94 Khosla Shiven (2086) of India and No. 63 Omid Noroozi (2274) of Iran. The Singapore-based Sadorra will square off No.10 GM Tigran Kotanjian (2570) of Armenia in the next round, winner over No.75 Sabri Al Mahayri (2202) of Syria and No.42 IM Lanka Ravi (2382) of India.
Three Filipino oversees worker - Fide Master Antonio Molina (2150), former Philippine kiddie champion NM Robert Arellano (2023) and journalist Jobannie Tabada (2057) are joint 41st placers while Ernesto Yap still has to make a point.
According to chief arbiter Filipino Casto "Toti" Abundo, the annual event in now on its 10th anniversary this year with 131 players from 25 countries in the tournament that attracted 29 GM/WGM, 21 IM/WIM and 22 FM/WFM.
CEBUANO BITOON FINISH 5TH IN BANGKOK CHESS
FILIPINO International Master Richard Bitoon (2420) held to a draw, top seed GM Varuzhan Akobian (2601) of the United States in the ninth and final round to settle for fifth place in the just ended 8th annual Bangkok Chess Club Open 2008 at the Century Park Hotel in Bangkok, Thailand over the weekend.
The Cebuano native Bitoon, a protege of NM Matias "Bombi" Aznar finished with 6.5 points on acocunt of six wins, one draw and two loses after nine games of play, the same output of WIM Qianyun Gong (2226) of China whom he beat in the tie break for 5th spot.
Another Filipino entry FM Roderick Nava (2345), who hails from Carmona, Cavite bowed to eventual champion Deschun Xiu (2371) of China in the final round but took over-all seventh place with 6.0 points along with 10 others.
Nava's Far Eastern University (FEU) team mate Christian Arroyo landed at 32nd place with 5.0 points while unheralded Eladio Parco is far at 62nd place with 4.0 points. Actually, this annual event which lured 99 players was dominated by the Chinese with clear first place Xiu (8.0 points), runner-up Ziyang Zhang (7.5 points) and third placer GM Li Shilong (7.0 points) who beat fourth placer fellow GM Akobian (7.0 points) in the tie breaker.
The Filipinos campaign here in Bangkok was supported by no less than National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr.
WESLEY SO, 14, NOW NO.1 IN RP APRIL 2008 FIDE RATING LIST; WINS DUBAI
WESLEY SO, 14, heads the April 1, 2008 Fide (World Chess Federation) ratings list of 100 Filipino players, with an Elo of 2540, his highest yet.
The world's youngest GM from Bacoor, Cavite also won his opening match yesterday against Al Sulaiti Ali (2161) of Brunei in the annually $45,000 Dubai Open dubbed as The Sheikh Rashed Bin Hamdan Al Maktoum Cup being held at the Dubai Chess Club in United Arab Emirates.
The No.16 seed So will square off FM Wu Xibin (2351) of China in the next round being held celebrating its 10th anniversary this year with 131 players from 25 countries in the tournament with 29 GM/WGM, 21 IM/WIM and 22 FM/WGM according to chief arbiter Filipino Casto "Toti" Abundo.
National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr. is very optimistic that the young So can brake the 2600 ELO barrier and become the first Super Grandmaster under his term.
"No doubt na ma achieve ni Wesley (So) y'ung 2600 Fide ELO rating points. Palagi tayong nasa tabi niya para tumulong sa kanyang mga pangarap sa larangan ng Chess," said Pichay in a recent interview who bankrolled the trip of So in Dubai Open.
This early, it seem So, one of the "Super Pinoy: was cited by Bandera Newspaper two years ago, that So can spearhead the Philippine team that will compete in the 38th Men's Olympiad in Dresden, Germany in November.
Close on his heels is Mark Paragua (2537), who is fresh from winning the Original 4 Rated Games Tonight last April 3 at the Chess Center of New York in Manhattan, New York, USA. The former Super GM whose best ELO is at 2621, the highest for a Filipino, finished undefeated with four wins in New York Chess.
Former No. 1 GM Rogelio "Joey" Antonio Jr.,an enlisted personnel of the Philippine Army kept his rating of 2529. This would have gone up had the results of the recent Sydney International Open been included in the tally.
RP long-time vanguard GM Eugene Torre was No. 4 with 2519, followed by Europe based IM Joseph Sanchez (2507), GM Darwin Laylo (2496), IM Oliver Dimakiling (2479), GM Jayson Gonzales (2467), IM John Paul Gomez (2464), and IM Julio Catalino Sadorra (2455).
Gonzales' title on the Fide rating list is still IM, but a more recent posting on its official website said Fide's presidential assembly had ratified the Filipino's new GM title.
No.14 Rolando Nolte (2420) and No.20 Oliver Barbosa's (2403) new IM title is expected to be ratified soon.
Meanwhile No. 83 Sherily Cua (2132) having set a Philippine-Australian record of sorts by being the only player out of 105 to win a Fide norm—WIM—in last week's Sydney International Open at the Parramata Town Hall in the capital of New South Wales according to the electronic mail Weekender report.
GM Viswanathan Anand (2803) of India took the No.1 spot in top 100 players in the world while Judit Polgar (2709) of Hungrary is alone of top in the top 50 women's players.
BATTLE OF THE GRANDMASTERS GOES TO MANILA PAVILION ON APRIL 19
ALL roads to the Manila Pavilion on United Nation (UN) Avenue when the much awaited Battle of Grandmasters takes its first move on April 19 to 30 in Ermita, Manila.
This was revealed by National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr. in a recent interview.
"Tuloy na tuloy na" said Pichay, who produced three grandmaster under his term---Wesley So, Darwin Laylo and Jayson Gonzales.
NCFP director Willy Abalos said in the Weekender report that 12 leading male players, including six of the country's seven grandmasters, have each made a definite commitment to play in the tournament.
On the distaff side, he said 12 of a short list of 14 amazons have made the same commitment.
Here is the lineup for the Men's Division: GMs Wesley So (2540), Mark Paragua (2537), Joey Antonio (2529), Eugene Torre (2519), Jayson Gonzales (2467), and Bong Villamayor (2425); IMs John Paul Gomez (2464) and Julio Catalino Sadorra (2455); FM Fernie Donguines (2362); and NMs Rolando Nolte (2420), Oliver Barbosa (2403) and Hamed Nouri(2392).
Here are the women who have pledged to join the mixed tournament: Catherine Pereña (2234), Sherily (2132) and Shercila Cua (2203), Rulp Ylem Jose (2044), Jenny Rose Paloma, Jedara Docena, Aices Salvador (1998), WIM Beverly Mendoza (2072), Chardine Cheradee Camacho (2106), Kimberly Jane Cunanan, Christy Lamiel Bernales, and Enerose Magno. Abalos said he was also inviting Loreshyl Cuison and WFM Sheerie Joy Lomibao (2185), but he had not heard from them.
contributed by MARLON BERNARDINO, edited by jovie sison.
Saturday, April 5, 2008
CHRISTIAN ARROYO WINS LEVISTE INTER-UNIVERSITY CHESS TOURNEY
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY native Christian Arroyo accumulated 6.5 points to snare the crown in the college division of the just concluded Dr. Jose P. Leviste Sr., Inter-University Chess Festival last March 29-30, 2008, at the Ateneo Grade School Cafeteria, Ateneo De Manila University, Katipunan, Quezon City.
Arroyo, also one of the top players of Far Eastern University (FEU) Chess Team under the tutelage of newly-installed GM Jayson Gonzales, drew his seventh and final round matches against De La Salle bet Emmanuel Emperado using the white pieces after 39 moves of a Queen's Gambit Declined skirmish to enroute the championships' trophy and the top prize of P5,000.
Emperado, on the other hand notched 5.5 points and settled second after beating Franz Barreto of University of the Philippines and Ramie Lord Guerra of Adamson University after the tie break points was applied, who finished third and fourth placers, respectively.
This fourth edition of the Leviste Cup was modified to focus on the chess playing youth. The tourney was in honor of the memory of Ateneo alumnus Dr. Jose P. Leviste Sr. (HS '33, AA '35), himself a good chess player.
All divisions followed the seven-round Swiss System with 25 minute active time control. The event was facilitated by the Ateneo Chess Coaching Staff and was emceed by the Assistant Coach for the Women's Chess Team, Ms. Chiara B. Lim.
The two-day tournament participated in by 168 woodpushers which supported by Adidas Philippines, Columbia Business School Alumni Philippines (CBSP), Quest Asia Pacific Resources Inc. (QAPRI), Treswell Investment Asia Corporation (TIAC),Australia Philippine Business Council (APBC) and Mr. Travis Chua.
Meanwhile, Ali Guya of Adamson University finish 6.0 points and received P5,000 plus trophy for his feat in the high school division while Vince Angelo Medina of Cavite Elementary School pocketed the P3,000 plus trophy after topping the elementary division.
Adjudged category winner were Dennis Gutierrez Jr. (Top Preschool), Dandrev Garcia (Top Grade 1) and Bianca Gutierrez (Top Grade 2) after tallying identical 4.0 points apiece. Ateneo's Jett Marcos finish with 5 points, the most improve player in the Elementary Division.
contributed by MARLON BERNARDINO
Arroyo, also one of the top players of Far Eastern University (FEU) Chess Team under the tutelage of newly-installed GM Jayson Gonzales, drew his seventh and final round matches against De La Salle bet Emmanuel Emperado using the white pieces after 39 moves of a Queen's Gambit Declined skirmish to enroute the championships' trophy and the top prize of P5,000.
Emperado, on the other hand notched 5.5 points and settled second after beating Franz Barreto of University of the Philippines and Ramie Lord Guerra of Adamson University after the tie break points was applied, who finished third and fourth placers, respectively.
This fourth edition of the Leviste Cup was modified to focus on the chess playing youth. The tourney was in honor of the memory of Ateneo alumnus Dr. Jose P. Leviste Sr. (HS '33, AA '35), himself a good chess player.
All divisions followed the seven-round Swiss System with 25 minute active time control. The event was facilitated by the Ateneo Chess Coaching Staff and was emceed by the Assistant Coach for the Women's Chess Team, Ms. Chiara B. Lim.
The two-day tournament participated in by 168 woodpushers which supported by Adidas Philippines, Columbia Business School Alumni Philippines (CBSP), Quest Asia Pacific Resources Inc. (QAPRI), Treswell Investment Asia Corporation (TIAC),Australia Philippine Business Council (APBC) and Mr. Travis Chua.
Meanwhile, Ali Guya of Adamson University finish 6.0 points and received P5,000 plus trophy for his feat in the high school division while Vince Angelo Medina of Cavite Elementary School pocketed the P3,000 plus trophy after topping the elementary division.
Adjudged category winner were Dennis Gutierrez Jr. (Top Preschool), Dandrev Garcia (Top Grade 1) and Bianca Gutierrez (Top Grade 2) after tallying identical 4.0 points apiece. Ateneo's Jett Marcos finish with 5 points, the most improve player in the Elementary Division.
contributed by MARLON BERNARDINO
Thursday, April 3, 2008
NOLTE TIE FOR FOURTH IN KOLKOTA CHESS
Final Standings (10 round-Swiss System tournament)
8.5 points---GM Victor Laznicka (Czech Republic), GM Krishnan Sasikiran (India)
7.5 points--- GM Shukrat Safin (Uzbekistan)
7.0 points--- GM Chanda Sandipan (India), GM Ziaur Rahman (Bangladesh), GM Humpy Koneru (India), IM ROLANDO NOLTE (PHILIPPINES), GM Alberto David (Luxembourg), IM Prasad S Arun (India), IM Jayaram Ashwin (India)
A day after securing his first grandmaster norm, Filipino International Master Rolando Nolte (2412) drew his last round matches against Indian GM Chanda Sandipan (2593) using the white pieces after 42 moves of a Sicilian Najdorf on Wednesday and settled for an seventh-way tie for fourth pace in the 3rd Kolkata Open International Grandmasters Chess Tournament at the Alekhine Chess Club, Gorky Sadan in Kolkata, India.
The undefeated Quezon City based Nolte, playing under the leadership of Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr., president of the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP), finished with 4 wins, 6 draws in ten games of play to raise his total to 7.0 points, the same output of GM Sandipan, GM Humpy Koneru, IM Prasad S Arun and IM Jayaram Ashwin of India, GM Ziaur Rahman of Bangladesh and GM Alberto David of Luxembourg. However No.5 seed GM Sandipan took the 4th spot, while the No.27 seed Nolte was 7th after the tie break was applied.
"I try my very best to achieve a better performance here in Kolkota Chess this time and to make my country proud. I would like to thank NCFP president (Prospero) Pichay for his undying support to the Philippine Chess." said Nolte, who dedicated his impressive showing to NCFP president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr.
"Nolte's impressive performance in Kolkota Chess make the country proud," commented Pichay, who earlier produced three grandmasters under his term---Wesley So, Darwin Laylo and Jayson Gonzales.
Nolte, enlisted personnel of the Philippine Air force also posted an impressive 2592 total performance rating plus obtaining 26 Elo rating points and went home Rs 24,000 (about US$600) prize money for his effort.
Before the final round, Quezon City Majority Floor leader councilor Ariel Inton lauded Nolte's triumph in Kolkota Chess.
"Maganda siyang halimbawang atleta sa bansa partikular na sa lungsod Quezon kaya imumungkahi ko sa (QC) council na bigyan siya ng parangal sa pangunguna ng ating butihing mayor (Sonny Belmonte)." Said Inton, a well known sports advocate.
No.4 GM Victor Laznicka of Czech Republic and top seed GM Krishnan Sasikiran of India tallied identical 8.5 points piece to finish in a tie for first and second place, full point ahead of No.13 GM Shukrat Safin of Uzbekistan who settled solo third with 7.5 points.
GM Laznicka pocketed the top purse Rs 200,000 (about US$5,000) plus the championships trophy after edging GM Sasikiran in a tie break points enroute runner-up prize of Rs 160,000 (about US$4,000). GM Safin didn't go home empty-handed after receiving third prize of Rs 120,000 (about US$3,000).
Meanwhile IM Oliver Barbosa (2410) bowed to GM Das Neelotpal (2486) of India after marathon 62 moves of a Sicilian-Alapin handling the white pieces to remains at 5.5 points, the same score of compatriot IM Chito Garma (2383), who brought downed Arjun Tiwari (2322) of India also employing the white pieces.
Contributed by MARLON BERNARDINO
8.5 points---GM Victor Laznicka (Czech Republic), GM Krishnan Sasikiran (India)
7.5 points--- GM Shukrat Safin (Uzbekistan)
7.0 points--- GM Chanda Sandipan (India), GM Ziaur Rahman (Bangladesh), GM Humpy Koneru (India), IM ROLANDO NOLTE (PHILIPPINES), GM Alberto David (Luxembourg), IM Prasad S Arun (India), IM Jayaram Ashwin (India)
A day after securing his first grandmaster norm, Filipino International Master Rolando Nolte (2412) drew his last round matches against Indian GM Chanda Sandipan (2593) using the white pieces after 42 moves of a Sicilian Najdorf on Wednesday and settled for an seventh-way tie for fourth pace in the 3rd Kolkata Open International Grandmasters Chess Tournament at the Alekhine Chess Club, Gorky Sadan in Kolkata, India.
The undefeated Quezon City based Nolte, playing under the leadership of Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr., president of the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP), finished with 4 wins, 6 draws in ten games of play to raise his total to 7.0 points, the same output of GM Sandipan, GM Humpy Koneru, IM Prasad S Arun and IM Jayaram Ashwin of India, GM Ziaur Rahman of Bangladesh and GM Alberto David of Luxembourg. However No.5 seed GM Sandipan took the 4th spot, while the No.27 seed Nolte was 7th after the tie break was applied.
"I try my very best to achieve a better performance here in Kolkota Chess this time and to make my country proud. I would like to thank NCFP president (Prospero) Pichay for his undying support to the Philippine Chess." said Nolte, who dedicated his impressive showing to NCFP president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr.
"Nolte's impressive performance in Kolkota Chess make the country proud," commented Pichay, who earlier produced three grandmasters under his term---Wesley So, Darwin Laylo and Jayson Gonzales.
Nolte, enlisted personnel of the Philippine Air force also posted an impressive 2592 total performance rating plus obtaining 26 Elo rating points and went home Rs 24,000 (about US$600) prize money for his effort.
Before the final round, Quezon City Majority Floor leader councilor Ariel Inton lauded Nolte's triumph in Kolkota Chess.
"Maganda siyang halimbawang atleta sa bansa partikular na sa lungsod Quezon kaya imumungkahi ko sa (QC) council na bigyan siya ng parangal sa pangunguna ng ating butihing mayor (Sonny Belmonte)." Said Inton, a well known sports advocate.
No.4 GM Victor Laznicka of Czech Republic and top seed GM Krishnan Sasikiran of India tallied identical 8.5 points piece to finish in a tie for first and second place, full point ahead of No.13 GM Shukrat Safin of Uzbekistan who settled solo third with 7.5 points.
GM Laznicka pocketed the top purse Rs 200,000 (about US$5,000) plus the championships trophy after edging GM Sasikiran in a tie break points enroute runner-up prize of Rs 160,000 (about US$4,000). GM Safin didn't go home empty-handed after receiving third prize of Rs 120,000 (about US$3,000).
Meanwhile IM Oliver Barbosa (2410) bowed to GM Das Neelotpal (2486) of India after marathon 62 moves of a Sicilian-Alapin handling the white pieces to remains at 5.5 points, the same score of compatriot IM Chito Garma (2383), who brought downed Arjun Tiwari (2322) of India also employing the white pieces.
Contributed by MARLON BERNARDINO
NOLTE BEATS BANGLADESH GM, EARNS A 9-ROUND GM NORM
Individual Standings after ninth and penultimate round:
7.5 points---GM Krishnan Sasikiran (India), GM Victor Laznicka (Czech Republic)
7.0 points---IM Prasad S Arun (India)
6.5 points---IM ROLANDO NOLTE (PHILIPPINES), GM Humpy Koneru (India), GM Chanda Sandipan (India), GM Tejas Bakre (India), GM Ziaur Rahman (Bangladesh), GM Ahmed Adly (Egypt), GM Shukrat Safin (Uzbekistan)
FILIPINO International Master Rolando Nolte (2412) earned a 9-round GM norm after beating ninth and penultimate round opponent GM Abdulla Al-Rakib (2506) of Bangladesh late Tuesday in the 3rd Kolkata Open International Grandmasters Chess Tournament at the Alekhine Chess Club, Gorky Sadan in Kolkata, India
This is his first norm, and just two more will earn for him the full International Grandmaster Title.
The Quezon City based Nolte prevails with the white pieces after 37 moves of a Ruy Lopez Opening.
With the win, the undefeated enlisted personnel of the Philippine Airforce raise his total 6.5 points on account of 4 wins, 5 draws and share 4th to 10th placers in the company of GM Ahmed Adly of Egypt, GM Ziaur Rahman of Bangladesh, GM Shukrat Safin of Uzbekistan, GM Humpy Koneru, GM Tejas Bakre and GM Chanda Sandipan of India, Nolte's tenth and final round opponent.
National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr. is very happy about Nolte's impressive showing in Kolkota Chess.
"This is really a good start for the Philippine Chess this year." said Pichay. "After Jayson (Gonzales) earned his third and final GM norm in Asean Master Chess in Tarakan, Indonesia as well Mark (Paragua) dominated the group B GM tournament and now is (Rolando) Nolte fulfilled his dream to obtain his first of the three GM norm, hope maraming magagandang balita pa sa ating RP woodpushers. Actually si Joey (Antonio) ay tie for 5th sa Sydney kung saan nakakuha naman ang WIM norm ni Sherily (Cua) sa Sydney Chess." He added.
Quezon City Majority Floor leader councilor Ariel Inton lauded Nolte's triumph in Kolkota Chess.
"Maganda siyang halimbawang atleta sa bansa partikular na sa lungsod Quezon kaya imumungkahi ko sa (QC) council na bigyan siya ng parangal sa pangunguna ng ating butihing mayor (Sonny Belmonte)." Said Inton, a well known sports advocate.
Tournament favorite GM Krishnan Sasikiran (2677/India) and GM Victor Laznicka (2595/Czech Republic) toppled their respective rivals toe share the lead going to the last round with 7.5 points each.
GM Sasikiran trounced GM Sandipan after 31 moves of a Sicilian-Rosolimo while GM Laznicka crushed GM Koneru after 40 moves of a Catalan Opening.
IM Prasad S Arun (2423/India), meanwhile, upset GM Vladimir Dobrov (2501/Russia) after 53 moves of a Queens Gambit Accepted to move solo third with 7.0 points.
Sharing the limelight is IM Oliver Barbosa (2410) who held into a draw with GM Smbat Lputian (2616/Armenia) after 59 moves of a Slav Defense for his 5.5 points. He was tied at 20th to 34th placers together with last round assignment GM Das Neelotpal (2486/India).
Not is fortunate were another Filipino entry IM Chito Garma (2383) who bowed to Aditya Udeshi (2331/India) to remains at 4.5 points.
Contributed by MARLON BERNARDINO
7.5 points---GM Krishnan Sasikiran (India), GM Victor Laznicka (Czech Republic)
7.0 points---IM Prasad S Arun (India)
6.5 points---IM ROLANDO NOLTE (PHILIPPINES), GM Humpy Koneru (India), GM Chanda Sandipan (India), GM Tejas Bakre (India), GM Ziaur Rahman (Bangladesh), GM Ahmed Adly (Egypt), GM Shukrat Safin (Uzbekistan)
FILIPINO International Master Rolando Nolte (2412) earned a 9-round GM norm after beating ninth and penultimate round opponent GM Abdulla Al-Rakib (2506) of Bangladesh late Tuesday in the 3rd Kolkata Open International Grandmasters Chess Tournament at the Alekhine Chess Club, Gorky Sadan in Kolkata, India
This is his first norm, and just two more will earn for him the full International Grandmaster Title.
The Quezon City based Nolte prevails with the white pieces after 37 moves of a Ruy Lopez Opening.
With the win, the undefeated enlisted personnel of the Philippine Airforce raise his total 6.5 points on account of 4 wins, 5 draws and share 4th to 10th placers in the company of GM Ahmed Adly of Egypt, GM Ziaur Rahman of Bangladesh, GM Shukrat Safin of Uzbekistan, GM Humpy Koneru, GM Tejas Bakre and GM Chanda Sandipan of India, Nolte's tenth and final round opponent.
National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr. is very happy about Nolte's impressive showing in Kolkota Chess.
"This is really a good start for the Philippine Chess this year." said Pichay. "After Jayson (Gonzales) earned his third and final GM norm in Asean Master Chess in Tarakan, Indonesia as well Mark (Paragua) dominated the group B GM tournament and now is (Rolando) Nolte fulfilled his dream to obtain his first of the three GM norm, hope maraming magagandang balita pa sa ating RP woodpushers. Actually si Joey (Antonio) ay tie for 5th sa Sydney kung saan nakakuha naman ang WIM norm ni Sherily (Cua) sa Sydney Chess." He added.
Quezon City Majority Floor leader councilor Ariel Inton lauded Nolte's triumph in Kolkota Chess.
"Maganda siyang halimbawang atleta sa bansa partikular na sa lungsod Quezon kaya imumungkahi ko sa (QC) council na bigyan siya ng parangal sa pangunguna ng ating butihing mayor (Sonny Belmonte)." Said Inton, a well known sports advocate.
Tournament favorite GM Krishnan Sasikiran (2677/India) and GM Victor Laznicka (2595/Czech Republic) toppled their respective rivals toe share the lead going to the last round with 7.5 points each.
GM Sasikiran trounced GM Sandipan after 31 moves of a Sicilian-Rosolimo while GM Laznicka crushed GM Koneru after 40 moves of a Catalan Opening.
IM Prasad S Arun (2423/India), meanwhile, upset GM Vladimir Dobrov (2501/Russia) after 53 moves of a Queens Gambit Accepted to move solo third with 7.0 points.
Sharing the limelight is IM Oliver Barbosa (2410) who held into a draw with GM Smbat Lputian (2616/Armenia) after 59 moves of a Slav Defense for his 5.5 points. He was tied at 20th to 34th placers together with last round assignment GM Das Neelotpal (2486/India).
Not is fortunate were another Filipino entry IM Chito Garma (2383) who bowed to Aditya Udeshi (2331/India) to remains at 4.5 points.
Contributed by MARLON BERNARDINO
NOLTE SETTLES FOR A DRAW WITH BANGLADESH IM IN KOLKOTA CHESS
MUST WAIT FOR HIS GM NORM
FILIPINO International Master Rolando Nolte (2412) move closer to obtain his grandmaster norm after settling a draw with the black pieces against IM Enamul Hossain (2522) of Bangladesh after 34 moves of a Sicilian Defense, Nadjorf variation in the eight round of 3rd Kolkata Open International Grandmasters Chess Tournament at the Alekhine Chess Club, Gorky Sadan in Kolkata, India on Monday.
The enlisted personnel of the Philippine Airforce remain undefeated in eight outings, who compiled total 5.5 points on account of 3 wins, 5 draws, good for him to tie at 9th to 18th placers along with ninth and penultimate round opponent GM Abdulla Al-Rakib (2506) of Bangladesh, also halve the point with GM Tejas Bakre (2459) of India after 44 moves of a Nimzo-Indian Defense.
National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr. said yesterday that Nolte can earn his GM norm after his nine games of play last night to Bangladesh GM Al-Rakib.
"Ayon sa Fide (World Chess Federation) rules, ang isang manlalaro na nagnanais na makakuha ng norm (FM, IM, GM) ay igagawad at least maka nine games siya, y'ung ang requirement. Sa kaso ni (Rolando) Nolte, wait pa natin y'ung game niya mamya (Kagabi), pero ang maganda ay na meet niya na 'yung tatlong magkakaibang federation para sa GM norm." Pichay referring Nolte's encounter more than three different federations came from India, Armenia, Uzbekistan, Russia as well Bangladesh last night.
Nolte earlier beat Nimmy A G (2222) of India in the first round then subdued Ghosh Diptayan (2016) of India in the second and held into a draw with GM Das Neelotpal (2486) of India in third, GM Vladimir Dobrov (2501) of Russia in the fourth, GM RB Ramesh (2473) of India in the fifth before upsetting GM Smbat Lputian (2616) of Armenia in the sixth round round. He also drew with GM Shukhrat Safin (2493) of Uzbekistan in the seventh and IM Hossain in the eight on Monday.
"Pero maganda kung manalo si (Rolando) Nolte sa laro niya mamyang gabi (kagabi) para may chance pa siya sa title bukod sa pagkuha sa GM norm," added Pichay, who bankrolled the trip of Nolte and two others Filipino campaigner in Kolkota Chess in this 10 round Swiss-system tournament.
Compatriot IM Oliver Barbosa (2410) needed 29 moves using the white pieces to beat Gurpreet Pal Singh (2292) of India in their Queens Pawn Game to raise his total 5.0 points and climbed into a tie for 19th to 32nd placers together with next round opponent GM Lputian, who drew his match to GM Niaz Murshed (2428) of Bangladesh after 37 moves of a Reti Opening.
Meanwhile IM Chito Garma (2383) defeated Kutwal Shashikant (2316) of India to score 4.5 points and share 33rd to 47th placers with ninth round opponent Aditya Udeshi (2331) of India, who drew her match to countryman WIM Nadig Kruttika (2208).
Four Grandmasters Krishnan Sasikiran (2677), Koneru Humpy (2612) and Sandipan Chanda (2593) of India and Viktor Laznicka (2595) of Czech Republic share the lead after the eighth round with 6.5 points each.
Contributed by MARLON BERNARDINO
FILIPINO International Master Rolando Nolte (2412) move closer to obtain his grandmaster norm after settling a draw with the black pieces against IM Enamul Hossain (2522) of Bangladesh after 34 moves of a Sicilian Defense, Nadjorf variation in the eight round of 3rd Kolkata Open International Grandmasters Chess Tournament at the Alekhine Chess Club, Gorky Sadan in Kolkata, India on Monday.
The enlisted personnel of the Philippine Airforce remain undefeated in eight outings, who compiled total 5.5 points on account of 3 wins, 5 draws, good for him to tie at 9th to 18th placers along with ninth and penultimate round opponent GM Abdulla Al-Rakib (2506) of Bangladesh, also halve the point with GM Tejas Bakre (2459) of India after 44 moves of a Nimzo-Indian Defense.
National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr. said yesterday that Nolte can earn his GM norm after his nine games of play last night to Bangladesh GM Al-Rakib.
"Ayon sa Fide (World Chess Federation) rules, ang isang manlalaro na nagnanais na makakuha ng norm (FM, IM, GM) ay igagawad at least maka nine games siya, y'ung ang requirement. Sa kaso ni (Rolando) Nolte, wait pa natin y'ung game niya mamya (Kagabi), pero ang maganda ay na meet niya na 'yung tatlong magkakaibang federation para sa GM norm." Pichay referring Nolte's encounter more than three different federations came from India, Armenia, Uzbekistan, Russia as well Bangladesh last night.
Nolte earlier beat Nimmy A G (2222) of India in the first round then subdued Ghosh Diptayan (2016) of India in the second and held into a draw with GM Das Neelotpal (2486) of India in third, GM Vladimir Dobrov (2501) of Russia in the fourth, GM RB Ramesh (2473) of India in the fifth before upsetting GM Smbat Lputian (2616) of Armenia in the sixth round round. He also drew with GM Shukhrat Safin (2493) of Uzbekistan in the seventh and IM Hossain in the eight on Monday.
"Pero maganda kung manalo si (Rolando) Nolte sa laro niya mamyang gabi (kagabi) para may chance pa siya sa title bukod sa pagkuha sa GM norm," added Pichay, who bankrolled the trip of Nolte and two others Filipino campaigner in Kolkota Chess in this 10 round Swiss-system tournament.
Compatriot IM Oliver Barbosa (2410) needed 29 moves using the white pieces to beat Gurpreet Pal Singh (2292) of India in their Queens Pawn Game to raise his total 5.0 points and climbed into a tie for 19th to 32nd placers together with next round opponent GM Lputian, who drew his match to GM Niaz Murshed (2428) of Bangladesh after 37 moves of a Reti Opening.
Meanwhile IM Chito Garma (2383) defeated Kutwal Shashikant (2316) of India to score 4.5 points and share 33rd to 47th placers with ninth round opponent Aditya Udeshi (2331) of India, who drew her match to countryman WIM Nadig Kruttika (2208).
Four Grandmasters Krishnan Sasikiran (2677), Koneru Humpy (2612) and Sandipan Chanda (2593) of India and Viktor Laznicka (2595) of Czech Republic share the lead after the eighth round with 6.5 points each.
Contributed by MARLON BERNARDINO
PINOY IM NOLTE SPLIT THE POINT WITH UZBEK GM, NEARS GM NORM
FILIPINO International Master Rolando Nolte (2412) is near achieving his grandmaster norm after salvaging a draw over GM Shukhrat Safin (2493) of Uzbekistan using the white pieces after 50 moves of Ruy Lopez Opening in the seventh round of 3rd Kolkata Open International Grandmasters Chess Tournament last Sunday at the Gorky Sadan, Kolkata, India.
The undefeated Quezon City based Nolte now has 5.0 points from 3 wins, 4 draws in seven outings to share 8th to 21st placers.
Nolte's eight round opponent is IM Enamul Hossain (2522) of Bangladesh and if luckily beat the Bangladesh GM or manage a draw he will obtain his grandmaster norm according to National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr.
"Kung mananalo o makatabla si (Rolando) Nolte sa laban niya kay (Enamul) Hossain ay tiyak na makukuha niya ang grandmaster norm. So far so good ang performance ni (Rolando) Nolte." Pichay referring 1 win and 4 draws of (Rolando) Nolte against the five grandmasters opponent.
After winning his first tow round match, Nolte split the point with GM Das Neelotpal (2486) of India in third, GM Vladimir Dobrov (2501) of Russia in the fourth and GM RB Ramesh (2473) of India in the fifth round and upset Grandmaster Smbat Lputian (2616) of Armenia in the sixth round and drew with GM Safin in the seventh round.
Meanwhile, IM Chito Garma (2383) also settled for a truce with WIM Kruttika Nadig (2208) of India to join IM Oliver Barbosa (2410) in the 29th to 49th placers with 4.0 points each. Barbosa bowed to world junior champion GM Ahmed Adly (2551) of Egypt.
Barbosa battles Singh Gurpreet Pal of India in the eight round while Garma takes on Shashikant Kutwal of India in this annual event using a 10 round Swiss-system format.
GM Humpy Koneru (2612), on the other hand bested countryman GM Dibyendu Barua (2491) of India to score 5.5 points. She was tied at 1st to 7th placers with top seed GM Krishnan Sasikiran (2677), GM Chanda Sandipan (2593) and IM Roy Saptarshi (2404) of India, GM Victor Laznicka (2595) of Czech Republic, GM Nguyen Anh Dung (2525) of Vietnam and GM Ziaur Rahman (2492) of Bangladesh.
Contributed by MARLON BERNARDINO
The undefeated Quezon City based Nolte now has 5.0 points from 3 wins, 4 draws in seven outings to share 8th to 21st placers.
Nolte's eight round opponent is IM Enamul Hossain (2522) of Bangladesh and if luckily beat the Bangladesh GM or manage a draw he will obtain his grandmaster norm according to National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) president Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr.
"Kung mananalo o makatabla si (Rolando) Nolte sa laban niya kay (Enamul) Hossain ay tiyak na makukuha niya ang grandmaster norm. So far so good ang performance ni (Rolando) Nolte." Pichay referring 1 win and 4 draws of (Rolando) Nolte against the five grandmasters opponent.
After winning his first tow round match, Nolte split the point with GM Das Neelotpal (2486) of India in third, GM Vladimir Dobrov (2501) of Russia in the fourth and GM RB Ramesh (2473) of India in the fifth round and upset Grandmaster Smbat Lputian (2616) of Armenia in the sixth round and drew with GM Safin in the seventh round.
Meanwhile, IM Chito Garma (2383) also settled for a truce with WIM Kruttika Nadig (2208) of India to join IM Oliver Barbosa (2410) in the 29th to 49th placers with 4.0 points each. Barbosa bowed to world junior champion GM Ahmed Adly (2551) of Egypt.
Barbosa battles Singh Gurpreet Pal of India in the eight round while Garma takes on Shashikant Kutwal of India in this annual event using a 10 round Swiss-system format.
GM Humpy Koneru (2612), on the other hand bested countryman GM Dibyendu Barua (2491) of India to score 5.5 points. She was tied at 1st to 7th placers with top seed GM Krishnan Sasikiran (2677), GM Chanda Sandipan (2593) and IM Roy Saptarshi (2404) of India, GM Victor Laznicka (2595) of Czech Republic, GM Nguyen Anh Dung (2525) of Vietnam and GM Ziaur Rahman (2492) of Bangladesh.
Contributed by MARLON BERNARDINO
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
